Pattaya

Pattaya Bay Genisis Stock Photo

 
Pattaya is Thailand's oldest international beach resort. It was "discovered" as it were, by American servicemen during the Vietnam war. The nearby U-Tapao air base was used by the US during the war, so Pattaya was a handy "R & R" location.

With such beginnings, it's hardly surprising that Pattaya quickly gained an image as one of Thailand's seedier beach resorts. However, in recent years the local authorities have made considerable efforts to clean up Pattaya's image, even though that has generally meant adding more family-oriented attractions rather than just getting rid of the seedy bits.

Pattaya's location, just two hours from Bangkok makes it a popular weekend destination for people wanting to escape the big city. This in turn guarantees that there are plenty of hotels in just about every price category.

There aren't many cultural or historic sights in Pattaya. The main attraction is the beach, so don't expect to see much of the "real" Thailand here.

Attractions & Articles

The Sanctuary of Truth

About 20 years ago, one of Thailand's most eccentric businessmen began a monumental building project on a rocky point just north of Pattaya. Meant to remind Asians of their traditional values and constructed entirely of wood, the gigantic structure is not yet complete. However, it is open to visitors and a fascinating place to see some almost lost talents.

Mini Siam

It's cheesy, it's tacky and it's cliche, but busloads of tourists still make their way to this attraction on the main highway in Pattaya.